The stronger of the two is Boerne's “The Psychic,” playwright Sam Bobrick's story of a struggling writer (Erik Heard) whose sideline in psychic readings steers him toward some promising novel fodder. There's a nifty twist in the second act that's deftly handled by Keisha McFerrin and Robert Gonzalez, as people who have come into the writer's orbit.

Director Kathleen Lovejoy paces the show well. And her appealing cast demonstrates some sharp comic timing. The entire show is breezy and satisfying.

Bulverde S.T.A.G.E. is tackling “FBI Girl: How I Learned to Crack My Father's Code,” Tammy Ryan's adaptation of a memoir by Maura Conlon-McIvor. It follows young Maura's (Lisa Renee Garza) efforts throughout her childhood to understand her taciturn dad (Sam Shelton), an FBI agent. A secondary thread has to do with the family's experiences with Maura's youngest brother Joe (well-played by Virginia Donnelly), who has Down syndrome.

The piece, directed by Lou Garza, is funny and sometimes moving. There are a few aspects that need some attention: Some scene transitions are much too slow, costing the show momentum; and the gunshot sound effects are an unnecessary distraction.

But the performances are solid — Barry Goettl is particularly strong as Maura's uncle — and the story is compelling.

“The Psychic” can be seen at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays through May 18 at Boerne Community Theatre, 907 Blanco Road in Boerne. Tickets cost $10 to $19. Call 830-249-9166 for reservations.

“FBI Girl: How I Learned to Crack My Father's Code” can be seen at 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays through May 19 at the Krause House, 1300 Bulverde Road in Bulverde. Tickets cost $10 to $18. Call 830-438-2339 for reservations.